Description

On 3 February 2019, an Airbus A320neo (SE-DOY) being operated by SAS on an international passenger flight from Copenhagen to Amsterdam as SK 553 failed to follow its post-landing taxi clearance and passed within a few metres of an Airbus 320 (G-EZWY) being operated by Easyjet U2 8885 on an international passenger flight from London Gatwick to Amsterdam. The crew of the Easyjet aircraft saw the impending collision risk and performed an emergency stop just in time to prevent impact. The conflict occurred at night in good ground visibility but the other aircraft crew did not notice the conflict and continued past the stopped aircraft at speed. 

Investigation

The Dutch Safety Board was informed of the event the following day and commenced a Serious Incident Investigation using recorded ATC radar and GND frequency transcripts to corroborate (or otherwise) the statements of those involved.

It was noted that all four pilots involved were experienced A320 pilots and familiar with the particular complexity of ground manoeuvring at Amsterdam as operated. The Easyjet A320 Captain had a total of “around 9,500 hours” flying experience and their First Officer had a total of “around 3,400 hours” flying experience. The SAS A320 Captain had a total of “around 15,500 hours” flying experience and their First Officer had a total of “around 11,500 hours” flying experience. The Captains of both aircraft were acting as PF during their respective taxi in.